96366 - Contextual Factors

Course Overview

The course will focus on how cultural values and beliefs, immigration and adjustment experiences, and socioeconomic conditions shape the current family compositions and functioning patterns of ethnic minority families in the U.S. Students will discuss issues that have an impact on child development and learning in the context of family, school and community, and will examine political factors that influence all such contexts. Students will continue to gain knowledge of various theoretical perspectives (e.g., cultural ecology model, developmental niche, and other ethno-theories), recent empirical research findings, and future trends in their individual and family functions.

What You'll Learn

• Analyze theoretical foundations and research methods that help us better understand cultural diversity in family functioning
• Explore the role of social contexts in the various stages of human growth and family functioning
• Identify social and psychological forces that influence cultural beliefs and practices in family functioning patterns
• Discuss emerging issues and views of cultural differences and similarities in the U.S. through a risk and resilience framework
• Summarize the effects of school characteristics and classroom content on youth and families

Who Should Attend

Early childhood professionals seeking additional knowledge related to equity processes that might impact children and families.

Additional Information

Participants must receive an 80% or better on all knowledge checks to receive a Certificate of Completion.